About Foster + Partners

United Kingdom

Foster + Partners

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/244290/image/large-3da50b46191a001bb0f9778a3682683f.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/244290">Spotted last week anchored in Villeneuve-Loubet on the French Riviera is the 59-metre naval-inspired superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/848" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ronin58.8m (192'11&quot;)Lürssen Yachts1993">Ronin</a>. She was launched by the German shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> in 1993 as Izanami. Commissioned by a Japanese client, the all-aluminium superyacht features an exterior design by Sir <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/170" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Foster + Partners (Company)">Norman Foster</a>, who also designed her interior in collaboration with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1193" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seccombe Design (Company)">Seccombe Design</a>, while her naval architecture and her deep V hull was penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/172" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gerhard Gilgenast (Company)">Gerhard Gilgenast</a>. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/848" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ronin58.8m (192'11&quot;)Lürssen Yachts1993">Ronin</a> has a generous interior volume of 626 GT, which can accommodate as many as 10 guests across five staterooms. Powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> 16V 595 TE90 of 6,000 horsepower each, the planing hull motor yacht can reach a top speed of 30 knots, remarkable for a vessel of her size.

Superyacht Ronin in Villeneuve-Loubet

The 59m superyacht Ronin, built by Lürssen, is seen here anchored in Villeneuve-Loubet, France.

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/166" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally (Company)">Wally Yachts</a>’ 30.45-metre sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2022" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dark Shadow30.45m (99'11&quot;)Wally2002">Dark Shadow</a> has been sold. Leo Jordil from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a> represented the seller during the negotiations, while it was <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6621" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="L Marine Group Srl (Company)">L Marine Group Srl</a> who introduced the buyer.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/88122/image/large-23643ea5825a181f6f2c83b85b5db4e5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/88122"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2022" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dark Shadow30.45m (99'11&quot;)Wally2002">Dark Shadow</a> was launched in 2002 sporting an exterior and naval architecture drawn up by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="German Frers (Company)">German Frer</a>s. She’s proven to be a successful racing yacht and boasts an impressive charter record. Dark Shadow has had two refits throughout her time seafaring: the first in 2012 and the second in 2019, which was conducted at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5560" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="PTW Shipyard (Company)">PTW Shipyard</a>, Spain.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/88136/image/large-d856b24d30853977327dfcac622421b4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/88136"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/88137/image/large-5ed94924254317dd8112cf538c4b57e4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/88137"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/88135/image/large-0ce7ef81489ad730b8a8808da9bc5225.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/88135"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/170" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Foster + Partners (Company)">Foster + Partners</a> headed the interior spaces of this 150 GT sailing yacht, configuring her three staterooms and space to accommodate up to six guests. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2022" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dark Shadow30.45m (99'11&quot;)Wally2002">Dark Shadow</a> features modern styling and has a dedicated area for dining and another for relaxation.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/176524/image/large-f8118561f30712a2070afc814141cd6e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/176524"> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/176523/image/large-40795dfe1d6ccd402d241179eb12b1cb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/176523"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/88138/image/large-4a033774424a330246b7a3c8a7d0f7a6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/88138"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2022" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dark Shadow30.45m (99'11&quot;)Wally2002">Dark Shadow</a> has a fully-equipped helm where guests can dine alfresco. She has plenty of toys and a 13-metre tender, dubbed Little Shadow. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2022" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dark Shadow30.45m (99'11&quot;)Wally2002">Dark Shadow</a> is constructed out of GRP and is equipped with a single <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">CAT</a> engine.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/88130/image/large-d76a350cb749d81f839386b8da789950.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/88130"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/88133/image/large-b61c8c75bb9a25c5356a5904c9f3048a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/88133">She was sold in France with a last known asking price of €2,600,000.

Wally Yachts’ 30m sailing yacht Dark Shadow sold

Wally Yachts’ 30m sailing yacht Dark Shadow has been sold with a last known asking price of €2,600,000.

After being on the market for nearly five years, the 41-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1182" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rodriquez Yachts (Company)">Rodriquez Yachts</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1999" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Sapphire41.0m (134'6&quot;)Rodriquez Yachts2010">Ocean Sapphire</a> has been sold. Nicolas Marchand from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1046" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bernard Gallay Yacht Brokerage (Company)">Bernard Gallay Yacht Brokerage</a> represented the seller during these negotiations, while Jonny Dodge of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6391" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="My Ocean Company (Company)">My Ocean Company</a> acted on behalf of the buyer. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/7545/image/large-8d770f82b495319c3871bc9a01bee6f7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/7545"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1999" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Sapphire41.0m (134'6&quot;)Rodriquez Yachts2010">Ocean Sapphire</a> is an unusual motor yacht that was launched in 2010 featuring a highly futuristic exterior design, penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/170" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Foster + Partners (Company)">Foster + Partners</a>. Her peculiar styling is likely the reason why she was on the market for so long, even though this <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1182" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rodriquez Yachts (Company)">Rodriquez</a>-built motor yacht is brimming with charm. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/82078/image/large-47569af64c5b756eace160061fab6f8c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/82078"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/7576/image/large-6add4a57843e9056d01bc85ce594e4a4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/7576"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/82079/image/large-c71e1175239c1f9e2255c7187d8e128c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/82079">With 346 GT of interior volume and five staterooms, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1999" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Sapphire41.0m (134'6&quot;)Rodriquez Yachts2010">Ocean Sapphire</a> has heaps of space to accommodate up to 12 guests. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/170" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Foster + Partners (Company)">Foster + Partners</a> also headed her interior styling, and mirrored that modernistic charm imbued from the docks. Her main saloon is wrapped by floor-to-ceiling windows, which emulate the class of a West Coast penthouse. There are twin L-shaped settees in the space and a fully-functional bar. To aft are sliding glass doors that lead directly to the main deck.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/7560/image/large-bc5b132c291a8e5532638332e70e80f7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/7560"> <a href="#managed-by-system" title="Foster + Partners (Company)" data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/170" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"></a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/170" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Foster + Partners (Company)"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/7553/image/large-65879dce02d4c1a8b9c71576fc1aa557.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/7553"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/7552/image/large-22a6eca27dbb0b7910330a4dd8f65210.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/7552"> Foster + Partners</a> made exceptional use of chrome and glass when designing <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1999" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Sapphire41.0m (134'6&quot;)Rodriquez Yachts2010">Ocean Sapphire</a>’s exterior spaces. Her sundeck and main deck are joined by sweeping staircases that wrap the profile of the yacht. There are glass balconies on each level to further that city penthouse charm. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/7562/image/large-06bbbd960d4b6023f5f1a8ae1f1a257d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/7562">The lower levels of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1999" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Sapphire41.0m (134'6&quot;)Rodriquez Yachts2010">Ocean Sapphire</a>, which can be accessed from a spiral stairwell, have a very different appeal. A second lounge area is located here and is filled with plump, white seating and is lit from an artistic splay of deck prisms. The staterooms are also located on the lower levels, all of which feature irregular-shaped walls and strip lighting that highlights the unorthodox styling. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/7583/image/large-528bbd6d176434ad18a62c0b3285af3b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/7583"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/7571/image/large-84c3664ccba0b45a0cb3ae6833c21bf4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/7571"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/7590/image/large-e118ab1ce50189b45d0f2e7858244c7d.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/7590"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/7581/image/large-729e74ccd723ef5b728fcfda8cb66de5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/7581"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/7569/image/large-4057f5e1263898e6a74b6423c96aed0c.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/7569">In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1999" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Sapphire41.0m (134'6&quot;)Rodriquez Yachts2010">Ocean Sapphire</a> has been equipped with twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">CAT</a> engines that give her a cruising speed of 16 knots and a top speed of 17.5 knots. She was sold with a last known asking price of €6,500,000.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/7537/image/large-3da32a89f3ea861b324645bde317f92e.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/7537">

Rodriquez 41m motor yacht Ocean Sapphire sold 

The 41-metre Rodriquez motor yacht Ocean Sapphire has been sold with a last known asking price of €6,500,000. 

Sold: 41m Ocean Sapphire by Rodriquez 

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/204442/image/large-d04ef53b3080447fa37536595a5459e3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/204442">The 59-metre naval-inspired superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/848" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ronin58.8m (192'11&quot;)Lürssen Yachts1993">Ronin</a> was launched at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> in 1993 as Izanami. Commissioned by a Japanese client, the all-aluminium superyacht features an exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/170" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Foster + Partners (Company)">Sir Norman Foster</a>, who also designed her interior in collaboration with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1193" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seccombe Design (Company)">Seccombe Design</a>. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/848" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ronin58.8m (192'11&quot;)Lürssen Yachts1993">Ronin</a> has a generous interior volume of 626 GT, which can accommodate as many as 10 guests across five staterooms. Powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> 16V 595 TE90 of 6,000 horsepower each, the military-styled superyacht can reach a top speed of 30 knots, remarkable for a vessel of her size.

Lürssen superyacht Ronin in Cala di Volpe

The 59m superyacht Ronin, built by Lürssen, is seen here anchored in Cala di Volpe.

Sailing <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/dark-shadow/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht Dark Shadow, for sale</a> as a proven racing yacht, has also been very successful as a charter vessel. Equipped with a brand new set of racing sails, this 2002 <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a> was most recently refitted in 2019. Argentinian designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="German Frers (Company)">German Frers</a> is responsible for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2022" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dark Shadow30.45m (99'11&quot;)Wally2002">Dark Shadow</a>’s naval architecture and interiors whereas the interiors are by London-based studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/170" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Foster + Partners (Company)">Foster + Partners</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/88122/image/large-23643ea5825a181f6f2c83b85b5db4e5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/88122">Inside this 30.45-metre <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/wally/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Wally yacht for sale</a>, guests will find one master stateroom and two twins with bright white decor throughout. At 150 GT, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2022" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dark Shadow30.45m (99'11&quot;)Wally2002">Dark Shadow</a> has a larger interior volume than most yachts her size, giving her enough space to easily accommodate up to six guests. Furnished with a contemporary-styled main saloon with areas for dining and lounging, <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/dark-shadow/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht Dark Shadow, for sale</a>, also has a well-appointed galley.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/88121/image/large-21d850693a07e5cb6b2b6c4cd8082bab.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/88121"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/88112/image/large-aa547da1e8f43fd3a918b8b29e08f053.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/88112"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/88115/image/large-c86ebcfd31342b32de301642dcbcf820.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/88115">Outside, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2022" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dark Shadow30.45m (99'11&quot;)Wally2002">Dark Shadow</a> has a fully-equipped helm and a sitting area with tables and benches. She also hosts a variety of toys including a wakeboard, inflatable doughnut, snorkelling and fishing equipment and water skis. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2022" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dark Shadow30.45m (99'11&quot;)Wally2002">Dark Shadow</a> has a tender, Little Shadow, which is a sleek 13-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/166" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally (Company)">Wally</a> ideal for day trips or going to shore.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/88118/image/large-e8b3e3e320b0cc4c83ab8fd961127431.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/88118"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/176520/image/large-f446d30f08a3c8bd0140a501d1ea06b8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/176520"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/176525/image/large-d377696f8f69bd0b4996a9dcd7d3b779.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/176525"><a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/dark-shadow/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Yacht Dark Shadow, for sale</a> with her emblematic dark black sails, sits upon a carbon fibre hull for maximum speed. She has recently been prepared for circumnavigation and can cruise at 11 knots.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/88133/image/large-b61c8c75bb9a25c5356a5904c9f3048a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/88133">

30m sailing yacht Dark Shadow for sale

New to the market: yacht Dark Shadow for sale! She is a 30m 

Wally build launched in 2002, accommodating up to six guests and four crew.

For sale: 30m Wally sailing yacht Dark Shadow

The 56-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/51" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perini Navi (Company)">Perini Navi</a> sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1448" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Panthalassa56.0m (183'9&quot;)Perini Navi2010">Panthalassa</a> has been sold, thanks to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/259" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Y.CO (Company)">Y.CO</a>'s Co-founder and CEO Charlie Birkett and broker Ben Bartlett representing both the seller and the buyer respectively. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/119479/image/large-3b58f5227f10b92dd88771ba3b1d83bd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119479"><img src="/uploads/store/photo/119478/image/large-88585cac725feef09df9e247efadfc0c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119478">Delivered to her original owner in 2010, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1448" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Panthalassa56.0m (183'9&quot;)Perini Navi2010">Panthalassa</a> features naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/52" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ron Holland Design (Company)">Ron Holland Design</a> and an interior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/170" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Foster + Partners (Company)">Foster + Partners</a> laid out to accommodate up to 12 guests across four double and two twin staterooms. Built for racing, the modern ketch can reach up to 15 knots with the help of twin Caterpillar 1,239 hp diesel engines. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/119482/image/large-b343c9474310a92ffd20637346989bf1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119482"><img src="/uploads/store/photo/119484/image/large-a1c3378547ef9458df7fc21ad53d4525.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119484"><img src="/uploads/store/photo/119487/image/large-4fc80b7cdd07dbbe4db209462b3c564c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119487"><img src="/uploads/store/photo/119483/image/large-b7dce5b83b9f09f3aa5d66c43c80c656.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119483">Charlie Birkett commented: "We are delighted to have represented both the seller and the new owner in the sale of what we believe to be one of the finest examples of the acclaimed Perini Navi 56m Series. Completing a sale of this magnitude requires close teamwork, and it is testament to the energy, positivity and adaptability of everyone involved, as well as the strength and expertise of the Y.CO Sales Team, that we have been able to conclude this sale in the current climate." &nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/119485/image/large-c3727228d4895aa34387899358c2dea2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119485"><img src="/uploads/store/photo/119481/image/large-b92b64ff6baa6d00b5d2c49417844f39.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119481">The recently sold yacht will continue to be both managed by and listed for charter with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/259" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Y.CO (Company)">Y.CO</a>.&nbsp;

56m Perini Navi sailing yacht Panthalassa sold

The 56-metre Perini Navi sailing yacht Panthalassa has been sold, thanks to Y.CO.

<img src="/uploads/store/photo/89484/image/large-6d9ad7d7d0324d487038f4ca3b10bb26.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/89484">Designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/170" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Foster + Partners (Company)">Foster + Partners</a> and built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1182" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rodriquez Yachts (Company)">Rodriquez Yachts</a> in Italy in 2011, the 41-metre motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1999" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Sapphire41.0m (134'6&quot;)Rodriquez Yachts2010">Ocean Sapphire</a>, seen here arriving in the Bay of St Tropez, forms part of three identical superyachts launched by fractional ownership company, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1845" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="YachtPlus (Company)">YachtPlus</a>. Sharing her unique marine-inspired designed by architect Norman Foster are her sister ships <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1997" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Emerald41.0m (134'6&quot;)Rodriquez Yachts2009">Ocean Emerald</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1998" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Pearl41.0m (134'6&quot;)Rodriquez Yachts2010">Ocean Pearl</a>, as part of the Signature 40 Series. The interior of the vessel was created to be extremely light and spacious, with continuous window sections and external balconies scattered across the yacht to enhance the feeling of freedom and spaciousness. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1999" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Sapphire41.0m (134'6&quot;)Rodriquez Yachts2010">Ocean Sapphire</a> offers accommodation for up to 12 guests in five separate staterooms.

Motor yacht Ocean Sapphire in St Tropez

The Norman Foster-designed motor yacht Ocean Sapphire arriving in the Bay of St Tropez recently. 

The 41m motor yacht Ocean Sapphire arriving in St Tropez

In a fleet of over 5,000 superyachts, the numbers of yachts that are instantly recognisable are small. Traditional and practical designs reign supreme, but occasionally a yacht will come along that breaks all the boundaries. Take the Maltese Falcon, Yas, S/Y A, M/Y&nbsp;A, Ocean Pearl, Black Pearl, Venus, Nero and Adastra&nbsp;- to name but a few. Love them or hate them, there is no doubt that they play an important role in demonstrating the capabilities of design innovation and, in their own way, have an effect on the overall evolution of superyacht design processes. Whether by directly influencing other designs, pushing design constraints to their limits and forcing innovation or simply sparking the imagination, these designs should be celebrated.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/20967/image/large-71a5389ec3045bfc8b37b4bdb0b22507.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/20967"> But how possible is it for innovation in superyacht designs to take place? Superyacht design is constantly evolving; with imagination and a willing owner, almost anything is possible within operational and safety constraints. That said, the creation of an innovative build will almost always come down to the owner, how much freedom they give the designer, and their willingness to do things differently. “Good projects come from good and demanding clients, and in the case of ECO, [her owner] Emilio Azcárraga was both,” says designer Martin Francis. With many owners aware that to build something ‘out there’ is a risky process, often impacting resale potential and inviting perhaps controversial opinions, playing it safe is often the more appealing route. “Very few owners are looking for innovation, I assume because of the risks that are inevitably involved,” says Francis.&nbsp;While building an iconic yacht is not for everyone, these yachts undoubtedly have had an important influence on superyacht design as a whole, with many people growing to love yachts they might initially have considered controversial. “This has been the case with Skat… People who didn’t like her at the time like her today, over time they’ve grown more comfortable with the design and they now like it,” says Espen Oeino. “What was initially considered an ugly duckling yacht has now become iconic, so perhaps iconic yachts do inspire others.”We take a look some of the most iconic and controversial superyacht designs and some of the thought processes behind their design.&nbsp;M/Y A and S/Y ADesigned by Philippe Starck, M/Y A and S/Y A turn heads wherever they go and divide opinions with their distinctive looks and futuristic designs. Both very different, albeit cut from the same cloth, M/Y A&nbsp;and S/Y A are bold statement yachts born from their owner’s desire to push the boundary of yacht design and create something unique.&nbsp;Starck was given total creative free rein when designing M/Y A after owner Andrey Melnichenko changed his mind on a commission from another designer. When Starck presented his designs, Melnichenko quickly agreed to them and the rest is history.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/20965/image/large-04c2df1c2c4c341f4231315fd2f8feb5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/20965"> M/Y A&nbsp;features submarine-inspired styling and a smooth upside down hull form that leaves almost no wake even when powering at 25 knots. A favourite feature of Starck’s on board M/Y A is the cavern-like tender garage, that feels akin to a ballroom when you step into its huge spaces. With openings on three sides, this space ensures true on water living.&nbsp;On her launch, S/Y A demonstrated similar creative styling to her motor yacht sister. This radical yacht is the biggest sail-assisted motor yacht in the world and her sheer scale is colossal with masts towering over 100 metres high. A shard like sloping design, all exterior surfaces are completely flush. Seen under sail for the first time in 2017 she is a yacht like no other and has no less than eight decks!Ocean PearlDesigned by Lord Norman Foster and the team at Foster + Partners, Ocean Pearl’s design features an arched superstructure that creates a look that is a departure from traditional design. “For its unique appearance, we drew inspiration from many sources, including nature and the sleek movement of sharks and dolphins through the water – the superstructure is brought forward and the prow of the yacht is raised to evoke a similar effect,” says Angus Campbell, Senior Partner at Foster + Partners. “This is complemented by a smooth shape, which wraps the accommodation under a single skin.”&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/7545/image/large-8d770f82b495319c3871bc9a01bee6f7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/7545"> The team took the concept of a traditional yacht layout and reinvented it, placing the owner's’ cabin at the bow of the boat, under the captain’s cabin with a ‘his and hers’ balcony on either side, which allowed the owners to have an unprecedented forward view from within their cabin. “We wanted to create a yacht on which 12 people can comfortably spend 10 days together at sea and Ocean Pearl has seven different external decks in a variety of scales, spaces where all guests can congregate, as well as more intimate, personal terraces,” says Campbell. “These are vital differences, so it is perhaps natural that this boat will also look strikingly different. Ironically, given she was designed to be different, Ocean Pearl is one of two identical sister ships.ECO&nbsp;On her launch, ECO (now named Zeus) represented a leap in superyacht design innovation with her striking aggressive lines, powerful performance and radically curved windows. Long, sleek and incredibly fast, she is widely hailed as a masterpiece of design. Despite this, “ECO was not recognised as ‘iconic’ for at least 15 years,” says her naval architect and designer, Martin Francis. The development of ECO’s design was a long process, and she almost wasn’t built with her owner nearly buying a secondhand build instead. “He [the owner] had faith in me as a designer but it took two and a half years before we came up with the final solution… there was no magic, just hard work.”<img src="/uploads/store/photo/20969/image/large-f051682a6cccded7d1824493db379c09.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/20969"> Eco’s huge curved windows, reminiscent of French buses, were a true style statement, and help give the yacht her distinctive look, with Francis describing their development process as “a work of art.” Other controversies around her design include the positioning of the bridge on the main deck, with the owner wanting the views from the space typically occupied by the bridge for himself. Today ECO&nbsp;is as iconic as when she was launched with her speed credentials still as impressive as they were a quarter of a century ago.&nbsp;Skat15 years ago when&nbsp;Skat launched, she intentionally broke away from the norm. “I had a very specific brief from the owner, who couldn’t relate to traditional yachts, who was looking for an honest design that respected the materials it used,” says Espen Oeino, her designer. &nbsp;“The challenge the owner gave me was to use the building materials in their existing format and I remember walking away from that first meeting and thinking ‘this is going to be difficult.’” As it turned out, the owner instantly liked Oeino’s first concepts and the yacht we see today is almost identical to those first sketches.&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/20966/image/large-f2bf74a7cb6ed0dc51797fb90ad46846.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/20966"> With her flat plates and profiles, grey colouring and slightly menacing appearance, “when Skat first launched there were a lot of people who were uncomfortable with the way she looked, they were generally never indifferent,” says Oeino. “People either loved or hated her and that’s fine. As a designer that is preferable to indifference!”Skat has undoubtedly had an impact on superyacht design as a whole, with her influences seen on many designs since her launch. “She was one of the very first superyachts to embrace stealth-style design and a linear design language, but today that style of the yacht is quite commonplace, so yes, perhaps she has been an inspiration to others,” says Oeino.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title=""><img src="/uploads/store/photo/13976/image/large-0479ea0b23567c145bad5ee46c7a49e8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/13976"> </a>This article was featured in the latest edition of the SuperYacht Times newspaper. Subscribe&nbsp;<a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">now&nbsp;</a>to receive your copy straight to your door and never miss another issue.&nbsp;

Yacht design innovation: breaking the mould 

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162987/image/large-4bea3714704e143641ba276afdf943fb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162987">

​Superyachts Tango and Ronin in Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Seen here in Palma de Mallorca last month following a busy summer season of cruising are the two naval-like superyachts Ronin and Tango. The 58-metre Ronin (background) was launched at Lürssen in 1993 as Izanami to a design by Sir Norman Foster for a Japanese client. In 2012 Ronin visited the Lürssen shipyard again where she underwent an 11-month intensive refit that saw her return to sea as good as new by August 2013.

The 77-metre Tango (foreground) was completed by Feadship in 2011. Her strong and masculine exterior is the work of Eidsgaard Design. Special features on board include a unique full-beam main salon, a private owner’s deck and a spacious sundeck with large swimming pool and outdoor cinema.

The battleship superyachts Ronin and Tango in Palma

The radically styled&nbsp;Ocean Sapphire is the work of design studio Foster + Partners and built by Rodriquez Yachts in Italy in 2011. Ocean Sapphire forms part of three identical superyachts launched by fractional ownership company YachtPlus, including Ocean Emerald and Ocean Pearl, as part of their Signature 40 Series.<img alt="" src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/155609/image/large-0c65c064f28661eb5b2cfa05c29ece22.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155609" class="legacy">The interior of the vessel was created to be extremely light and spacious, with continuous window sections and external balconies scattered across the yacht to enhance the feeling of freedom and spaciousness. Her unique fish-like design has been developed to offer over 30% more exterior and interior space than other yachts in her category.<img alt="" src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/155610/image/large-abc4f19a20069e2e5602f399cf15aa02.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155610" class="legacy">Ocean Sapphire offers accommodation for her 12 guests over 5 staterooms and has an interior by Foster + Partners that has been designed with family life and child-friendliness in mind.Floating Life acted on behalf of the seller while Bernard Gallay Yacht Brokerage represented the buyer. Ocean Sapphire&nbsp;was listed at an asking price of EUR 4,180,000.

41 metre superyacht Ocean Sapphire sold

The Lord Norman Foster designed superyacht Ocean Emerald has been sold in an inhouse deal by Camper &amp; Nicholsons International.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/152103/image/large-1b088ba215043bbedbd40954481e5845.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/146334"><a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1997">Ocean Emerald</a>, launched in 2009, was probably the most unusual superyacht launched that year. This contemporary 41 metre yacht has been designed by Lord Norman Foster with a strong emphasis on space and light and has five suites for up to 12 guests. She was in fact the first of a series of identical superyachts launched by the Italian boatyard Rodriquez Cantieri Navali in Sarzana, Italy. The yacht was on the market asking €5,500,000.By Maarten Janssen, photo by Christo303

Superyacht Ocean Emerald sold

Last week we reported about the recent refir of superyacht Ronin at Lürssen. Today we can bring you more details about the work that was carried out whilst this 20 year old yacht was in Germany.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/145373/image/large-ced5a4be3838d8b142a4f4685ce0eb58.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/145373">Refit, Repair and Conversion has become a core business for Lürssen. During the last 12 months 8 yachts between 46 and 110 metres have used the Lürssen facilities for modifications. Amongst them are some of the world's most beautiful yachts such as Coral Island, Radiant or Mayan Queen.The refit of Ronin was one of the bigger refits. During her 11 month stay at the yard she has undergone a complete face-lift from the technical side up to the repainting of the hull and superstructure to make her as good as new.Work included the removal of the old teak decks, installation of a new noise reducing cork underlay and installation of new teak decking, the dismantling of 50% of the interior to remove old AV cables, and the installation of new state of the art AV, telephone and camera systems. The yachts generators and main engines were overhauled, and she underwent her 10 year ABS survey. More technical work included the complete overhaul of pumps and valves in technical areas, the installation of a new provision cooling plant and new shaft bearings.Cosmetic work included composite work on foredeck storage boxes, wing consoles, and tender cradles. The installation of a new sun awning system for sun-/bridge deck, and a new paintjob.She left the shipyard in August 2013 to the complete satisfaction of her owner.Lürssen Yachts +49 421 6604 166 <a href="mailto:yachts@lurssen.com?subject=L%FCrssen%20on%20SuperYachtTimes.com">yachts@lurssen.com</a> <a href="http://www.lurssen.com/" target="_blank">www.lurssen.com</a>By Maarten Janssen, photo by Carl Groll

More details about the refit of Ronin at Lürssen

Lürssen has just finished a refit on their extraordinary superyacht Ronin, built by the German yard in 1993. Ronin is designed by Sir Norman Foster, and built as Izanami for a Japanse client.<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Ycn87xItb6U" width="420"></iframe>Her current owner took her back to Germany for a refit, that included a repaint, 10-year ABS survey and a new sun awning system. The yacht is powered by twin 6000 hp MTU 16V 595TE90 engines, and has a top speed of 30 knots.According to her AIS signal, the yacht is currently docked in Norway.

58 Metre Ronin delivered after refit at Lürssen

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/139872/image/large-754c0de52b9cd8b67441cb1ce83aa4af.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/139872">The Perini Navi superyacht Panthalassa in the CaribbeanThe 56 metre Perini Navi Panthalassa was launched in 2009, and has a 59 metre high mast. A phenomenal interior by Lord Norman Foster achieves a balance of light, structure and comfort. Inspired by lighthouse design, natural light is filtered throughout, and a floating bar in the main salon defies gravity. Designed with charter in mind, she features six individual cabins, that all share similar proportions, rather than having one large master stateroom.By Maarten Janssen, photo by Benoit Donne

The 56 metre Perini Navi Panthalassa in the Caribbean

Edmiston had joined Floating Life as the co-central agent for the sale of superyacht Ocean Emerald. This spectacular and contemporary 41 metre masterpiece has been designed by Lord Norman Foster with a strong emphasis on space and light and has five suites for up to 12 guests. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/138414/image/large-665fba047df05ec7a7e6be872954e84c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/127513"> With four genuine deck levels offering over 30% more outdoors and indoors space than any yacht in her category. Special attention was paid to the quality of light and views, with all major areas of the yacht benefiting from forward-looking views, including the master suite that has two private balconies forward. Much thought went into making the yacht user-friendly for families and children.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/138415/image/large-cb0c5392686705f0bab2ab8f3cb84de9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/127529">The main saloon offers a modern sense of space and light, enhanced by the ceiling-to-floor windows. All furniture is loose-standing and can be configured flexibly, including a home cinema solution using a giant screen hidden in the ceiling. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/138416/image/large-1e2ecfc543413ec8089daa85942f718d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/127523">The guest cabins on the Lower Deck provide spacious accommodation for up to 10 guests. There is a central lobby with a translucent spiral staircase that filters through light from the decks above, and a segregated corridor for the crew to ensure maximum privacy for owner and guests. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/138417/image/large-990f154c039f1c1b1cbe2ffc008f53ca.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/127527"> <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/138418/image/large-f232a7eb47fd8b876d01a1e02b8049a6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/127528">The Owner’s Suite situated forward on the Main Deck, with over 53 square metres in size, is more spacious than most other superyachts in this category. It benefits from an abundance of light and forward looking views, without compromising privacy. Unique features include two “His and Hers” private balconies forward.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/138419/image/large-5d7a75880bc79fdd69256fc74c8028c9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/127533">Ocean Emerald is offered for sale asking € 9,000,000.Edmiston Tomaso Polli +44 20 7495 5151 <a title="Bleu de Nimes on SuperYachtTimes.com" href="mailto:tp@edmistoncompany.com?subject=Article%20on%20SuperYachtTimes.com">tp@edmistoncompany.com</a> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.edmistoncompany.com/">www.edmistoncompany.com</a> Floating Life +41 (0)91 69 000 65 <a href="mailto:info@floatinglife.ch?subject=M/Y%20Ocean%20Emerald%20%28SuperYachtTimes.com%29">info@floatinglife.ch</a> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.floatinglife.ch">www.floatinglife.ch</a> By Maarten Janssen